DIVA Tech Day 2002 A Nontraditional Career Day For Girls In Grades 8-11

BE a DIVA Tech for a day was held on January 19, 2002 at the Vocational Building and at Magic City Campus. Girls in grades 8-11 had an opportunity to hear about non traditional careers and be involved in hands-on activities in the following classes and career fields: automotive technology, automotive collision and refinishing, computer electronics, computer networking, construction technology, communications technology, multimedia technology, and manufacturing technology. Donna Bye, City Planner keynote speaker, shared information and highlights about her career in a nontraditional field for women. Kathy Harris, guidance counselor at Magic City Campus visited with the participants about factors to consider when selecting classes, and matching interests with ones goals. ING donated Pizza for lunch and the National Guard provided Poweraide. Several businesses also donated door prizes which were awarded at the end of the day. All of the participants left with new ideas and their hands filled with the projects they had created. DIVA for a Day is a component of a grant funded by the State Board for Vocational and Technical Education to create awareness and encourage girls to explore careers in nontraditional fields. This special event was coordinated by Pam Stroklund, MPS teacher and LaDonna Elhardt, VTE program director.

Mr. Serr helps DIVA Tech participants use laser technology to create a picture frame.  Mr. Lang helps students use computer technology and sandblasting to create a design on a candle holder.

Mr. Larson advises these curious DIVA's about what to look for when checking the oil in your vehicle. Mr. Nygaard helps this DIVA prepare the supplies she will need to weld a "Diva Betty."

Construction Technology is for "everyone" according to Mrs. Royster, Central Campus Construction Technology teacher.

Imagine this were the side of your car and you had to pound out the dents, smooth, repair and paint.

Mr. Ness shares the principles involved in Automotive Collision and Refinishing while the participants create their work of art.

Mrs. Stroklund provided these DIVA's with some "getting connected with networking" information.

Mr. Waller, Computer Electronics teacher, makes sure this AC Electricity Tester is soldered to perfection.

There are many careers to explore in "Communications Technology."

Watching the laser machine create a design is simply fascinating.

Kathy Harris, MCC Guidance Counselor shared information about things to consider when selecting and matching classes with goals and interests.

Putting the finishing touches on the "DIVA Betty" welding project.

Trent Hall helps these young DIVA's create suing photography, scanners, and computer technology.

Problem solving and organization are skills everyone needs no matter what career they choose.

New skills and information about construction as a career were learned while building a shelf.